Description: As the battle between Grant and Lee raged at Spotsylvania
Court House, the Union cavalry corps under Maj. Gen. Philip Sheridan embarked
on a cavalry raid against Richmond. After disrupting Leeís road and rail
communications, Sheridanís cavalry expedition climaxed with the battle
of Yellow Tavern on May 11. The outnumbered Confederate cavalry was defeated,
and Maj. Gen. J.E.B. Stuart was mortally wounded. Sheridan continued
south to threaten the Richmond defenses before joining Butlerís command
at Bermuda Hundred. After refitting, Sheridan rejoined the Army of the
Potomac on May 25 for the march to the southeast and the crossing of the
Pamunkey.